Beleg van Smolensk, 1609-1611 1610 - 1612

Frans Hogenberg created this print of the Siege of Smolensk sometime between 1609 and 1611. The image captures a pivotal moment during the Polish-Muscovite War, a conflict shaped by dynastic ambitions, religious divides, and territorial disputes. Hogenberg, who lived through the Dutch Revolt, was keenly aware of the political and social upheavals of his time. His prints often document events from a distinctly European perspective, reflecting the cultural biases of the era. The siege itself was a brutal affair, impacting the lives of countless individuals. The city of Smolensk was a melting pot of ethnicities and religions. Within its walls, people of different backgrounds had to decide where their loyalties lay during a time of war. This print serves as a reminder of the complex human stories behind historical events. While the artist presents a bird's eye view of the siege, we must remember the people on the ground whose lives were irrevocably changed.